architecture & environment

The module introduces the components of environmental conditions and issues that need to be considered in architecture design. It focuses on human intervention affecting the environment both positively and negatively and the relationship of buildings with the natural system. The area of study consists of basic building design, advocating passive design, and designing with nature to enhance energy efficiency in buildings.

01 Daylight & Thermal Comfort Assessment

In a group, students need to formulate creative ideas on how to maximize daylight and thermal comfort for their chosen modern house that can be either a double storey corner lot or a double storey semi-detached house.

02 Green Buildings in Malaysia

In a group, students need to search for relevant information of “green” buildings accredited by national or international accrediting bodies (GBI, LEED, BREEAM, etc.) and assemble and reflect on the applied environmental strategies of one selected building.

self reflection

During this module, I gained a profound understanding of the critical interplay between architecture and the environment. One key takeaway was recognizing the pivotal role of sustainable design in mitigating environmental impact. I learned how green building certification systems like GBI, LEED, and BREEAM incentivize sustainable practices and contribute to creating healthier, more energy-efficient buildings. Through case studies, I deepened my knowledge of how environmental strategies such as passive design, renewable energy integration, and natural ventilation can enhance both the comfort and efficiency of buildings.

Moreover, the module highlighted the importance of on-site visits in comprehending the practical implementation of sustainable design principles. These visits provided invaluable insights into how architectural decisions directly influence a building's environmental performance. Additionally, compiling data and creating visual representations like posters and videos helped reinforce my understanding of the concepts studied.

Overall, this module sparked a newfound appreciation for the synergy between architecture and the environment. It underscored the urgent need for sustainable practices in architectural design and instilled in me a sense of responsibility to prioritize environmental stewardship in my future endeavors within the field of architecture.